Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has directed concerned agencies to expedite the implementation of priority projects that will have a 'multiplier effect' on the Philippine economy, Malaca±ang said on Friday. Executive Secretary Ralph Recto met with executives of key government agencies at Malaca±an Palace in Manila on Thursday to assess the progress of the administration's big-ticket programs.
According to Philippines News Agency, the meeting was attended by officials from the Departments of Budget and Management, Public Works and Highways, Transportation, Agriculture, and Education. Recto stressed the urgency of addressing budget utilization issues to narrow the gap between disbursements and releases for key government projects. He reminded the state departments of the President's directive to prioritize projects that will generate more jobs, ease inflation, and promote food security.
Recto highlighted that the President's order is to fast-track priority programs to push economic growth against global headwinds. He pointed out underspending spots that must be resolved immediately. Government allocation releases have reached PHP1.287 trillion in the second quarter of 2026, according to data from the Office of the Executive Secretary.
Department officials emphasized the need to maximize the new procurement rules to expedite project acquisition and cut delivery delays. Recto noted that government funds must be utilized to ensure that Filipinos will feel the benefits of the priority projects promptly. He mentioned that speeding up processes without legal shortcuts and eliminating red tape that causes paralysis, while maintaining transparency, is possible.
Efficient and prudent government spending, which impacts the economy, is crucial in sustaining the country's growth momentum. Amid global volatility and geopolitical tensions, the government is implementing the Unified Package for Livelihoods, Industry, Food and Transport (UPLIFT) measures to address economic disruptions. The UPLIFT agenda aims to protect households, support vulnerable sectors, and ensure adequate energy supply and affordable food for all Filipinos.
